"He looks like his numbers," a personnel man told McGinn. "He's not a real impressive guy. He plays small, and he doesn't play fast."

Franklin was known for his blocking skills, but that hasn't translated so far. He hasn't looked comfortable in a return role. Franklin is battling James Starks and Alex Green for the No. 3 running back job, and none of them have consistently stood out.

Franklin, touted by many as a draft steal, is a safe bet to make the team because of his draft status, but he's probably not headed for much of a role as a rookie.